When it comes to the medicinal benefits of cannabis, there are two primary cannabinoids that stand out: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Both have unique therapeutic qualities, but when it comes to choosing between HHC or THC, which is better? In this blog post, we’ll explore the key differences between these two cannabinoids and help you decide which is best for you.
What Is HHC?
HHC is a cannabinoid, a class of chemical compounds found in cannabis plants. Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various biological functions. HHC is created by adding hydrogen molecules to THC, the main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. This process, known as hydrogenation, converts THC to HHC. While Adams derived HHC from conventional cannabis-based THC back then, these days the cannabinoid is more often than not extracted through a process starting with hemp instead–the low-THC cannabis plant that became federally legal in 2018 courtesy of Congress’ farm bill. HHC has attracted attention for its potential therapeutic benefits, which are currently being studied in preclinical and clinical trials.
Does HHC Get You High?
At the moment, there isn’t enough information available to say definitively what the effects of HHC are. Some users report feeling similar effects to traditional THC products, but more research is needed to confirm this. There isn’t enough data either on whether there are any negative side effects or even long-term consequences from taking HHC. Until more is known, it’s important to exercise caution if you’re considering trying this substance.
What IS THC?
THC is the most plentiful psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. It’s what makes people “high.” THC may be inhaled, eaten, or drunk in a variety of ways. It can also be delivered as a pill or liquid. THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, causing mood and perception changes. Impaired memory and coordination, rapid heart rate, and anxiety are all short-term effects of THC. Long-term side effects of THC include addiction, reduced IQ, and mental health issues.
THC Vs. HHC: Are They Legal?
Both THC and HHC are classified as synthetic cannabinoids, which means they occupy a space where the law is not definitive. In America, THC falls under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, which signifies that it has a high potential for abuse but no accepted medical use. However, HHC does not have a DEA classification yet.
Despite the fact that THC is illegal under federal law, HHC is not. This also implies that HHC does not have to obey the same limitations as THC. For example, HHC may be sent across state lines, whereas THC cannot. As long as the DEA does not classify HHC in a way that makes it illegal, it is legal to buy and sell in the United States. Some states, on the other hand, ban all cannabinoids; therefore, it’s important to check your state’s law before buying or selling HHC.
Which is Stronger, THC Or HHC?
The answer to this question is not as simple as it may seem. THC is the active ingredient in marijuana that gets people high, while HHC is a non-psychoactive compound found in the plant.
So, which one is stronger?
The term “stronger” is relative when discussing THC and HHC. If you’re thinking in terms of psychoactive effects, then THC is stronger. On the other hand, if medicinal properties are what interest you, then HHC could be considered stronger.
Studies have shown that HHC has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, whereas THC has mostly been shown to just relieve pain. Additionally, HHC has been shown to kill cancer cells in vitro, while THC has only been shown to shrink tumors in rats.
So, while THC may be stronger in terms of its psychoactive effects, HHC appears to be stronger in terms of its medicinal properties.
THC And HHC Side Effects:
Some of the most common negative effects associated with THC are feelings of elation, relaxation, and increased hunger. However, regular users of cannabis may also suffer from anxiety or panic attacks as a result of THC binds to certain receptors in the brain and changing them.
Some negative effects of overstimulating CB1 receptors include paranoia, anxiety, dry mouth, dry eyes, and slower reaction times. However, it is important to note that everyone reacts differently to THC. Some people feel relaxed after using it while others may feel anxious.
The chemical component of HHC, on the other hand, does not result in any psychoactive effects. This implies that it will not make you “high.” HHC, on the other hand, can produce a variety of adverse symptoms, including:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Increased appetite
- Slower reaction times
- Impaired judgment
Does HHC Show Up On A Drug Test?
The answer to this question is not simple. Although HHC isn’t a drug that’s tested for in average drug tests, it doesn’t mean that it can’t appear on one in the future. If you’re anxious about whether HHC will show up during a drug test, you should speak with your employer or whoever is giving the drug test.
Keep in mind that there are various sorts of drug tests, each with its own sensitivity and accuracy. A urine test, for example, is more likely to reveal the presence of HHC than a blood test, according to one study. The ideal method to prevent HHC from showing up on a drug test is to cease using it altogether.
So, which Is better? THC Or HHC?
Both THC and HHC are the two most common active components in cannabis. THC is responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects, whereas HHC is involved with its therapeutic effects. Both chemicals have a wide range of potential advantages, but they also come with their own set of drawbacks.
THC has been shown to make people more anxious and paranoid, while HHC can cause drowsiness and a dry mouth. As a result, the best option for you will be determined by what you want from cannabis in terms of its effects. If you want the psychoactive effects of cannabis, THC is the superior alternative. If you want to get the therapeutic advantages of cannabis without getting high, HHC is preferable.
The Takeaway
Though both HHC and THC are found in the cannabis plant and interact with the endocannabinoid system, it’s important to understand that these two psychoactive compounds are not identical. HHC is a form of THC that has been hydrogenated, meaning it has undergone a process of chemical transformation. Some people believe that HHC can be found naturally occurring in cannabis plants, but most commercially available HHC products have gone through this process. When ingested, both HHC and THC produce various effects by interacting with the endocannabinoid system; however, further research is needed to determine the full extent of these effects.
